Lachlan has
found the job
that works for
him.
“
My job gives me that
ability to build up social
skills like talking to new
people and meeting
new people, which is
really enjoyable for me.
Since starting at Kmart, Lachlan Grindrod is proving austism is no barrier
to finding the right job and earning an income.
As Lachlan sits forward in his chair
and chats confidently to a room full of
strangers, there is nothing in the articulate
young man’s manner to suggest that at
two years old, Lachlan’s verbal ability
back-pedalled to a point where he had
virtually stopped speaking.
Fast forward 18 years, and through the
treatment and management of his autism
diagnosis, Lachlan is part of Kmart’s
customer service team; manning the
checkouts and helping customers with
ease.
“It was very challenging at the start
where I got a little bit frustrated, a
little bit confused. That’s when I asked
my Mylestones Employment Job
Development Officer (JDO) a few
questions about it and they helped me in
the right direction,” says Lachlan – who’s
been at Kmart for over 12 months now.
“When I got my first pay cheque, I was
very surprised and shaking actually. It
changed me.
“Getting the job at the right time after
leaving high school, I could start to get
into saving and get into the real world
like everyone else,” Lachlan said.
”
Lachlan has since completed a Certificate
II in Retail and still meets with his
Mylestones Employment JDO to map out
a career path and find ways to turn his
dreams into reality.
“Ever since I was young, I’ve always
wanted to work in the public transport
industry in customer service; telling
people where to go, how to help them on
their journey.
“But the most exciting job that I’d really
like to get in the future is working as a
train driver at Queensland Rail.
“I’ve always loved how the trains operate:
how they work, what railway lines they
go on and how they run on time, which is
very important,” Lachlan said.
The team at Mylestones Employment is
focused on building more opportunities
for people like Lachlan, with barriers and
disabilities, to find work, earn an income,
gain independence, develop new skills
and follow their passions.
If you or someone you know is
ready to take the next step with
Mylestones, call 1300 635 or visit
us at www.mylestones.org.au
CPL – Choice, Passion, Life
15